Crime Quote by JM Coetzee
““Lucy, my dearest, why don’t you want to tell? It was a crime. There is no shame in being the object of a crime. You did not choose to be the object. You are an innocent party.’ (111)””
About This Quote
The speaker asserts that victims of crime retain innocence and should not bear shame for circumstances beyond their control.
In simple terms: Victims remain innocent despite being objectified.
Shame belongs to perpetrators, not victims.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Legal defense of sexual assault survivors
- Therapeutic support groups
- Public discourse on victim blaming
Key Concepts
Practical Applications
- Advocate for survivor‑centered narratives
- Educate on consent and accountability
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies better protect the dignity of victims?
- What role does language play in assigning blame?
May oversimplify complex power dynamics where victim agency can be nuanced.